Journal of Sacred Work

Days 6-10 – The Most Important Thing We Forget

A different dawn - erie chapman   Every older person worries about forgetfulness. But, when Vanderbilt Divinity School intern Summer Hyche told her audience, "We are a forgetful people" she was not talking about dementia.

   "We forget we are loved," she said. She is right. 

   Love is humanity's core longing. But what if your heart's house feels empty?  Reminding you of God's Love may ring false if you think everyone hates or ignores you. 

   Low self worth blocks Love. The shame I feel when I fail to be present to another, lose patience, or don't meet expectations aggravates that. 

   It is natural, though foolish, to allow others to define our "lovability." A supervisor spouting venom may seem more powerful than your invisible God. 

   Each day we silently seek signs of love. They are everywhere but we may be blind to them.

   Today I noticed an invitation in the church bulletin. It asked that we remain seated in silence during the Postlude to consider how to connect what we heard inside church with our lives of service outside. 

   As you serve others today may you experience the soft rain of God's grace nurturing the meadow of your soul. That grace is love.

-Rev. Erie Chapman

Photo-painting – "Soft Rain at Dawn" Erie Chapman, 2020

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5 responses to “Days 6-10 – The Most Important Thing We Forget”

  1. Maureen McDermott Avatar
    Maureen McDermott

    As Australia burns with the devastating fires, we are warmed and encouraged by the outpouring of love in so many inspirational ways – people are opening their houses, providing food, not shopping so that those who are stranded can have first access to what is left on supermarket shelves, reaching out in a compassionate hug, connecting with one another to check that they are safe. Yes, we are blessed that Love is so active, especially in times of crisis. Thank you Erie for your words of comfort and hope.

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  2. Erie Chapman Foundation Avatar
    Erie Chapman Foundation

    Deep thanks to you, dear Maureen.
    Our hearts are with you (and some here are also sending & for Australian relief as well.)
    YOU & what you say & live about Love illustrate the power of God that flows through those who serve others.
    Our prayers are with you. And my gratitude for your ministry as well.

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  3. Terry Chapman Avatar
    Terry Chapman

    Connecting what we hear in church with our “monday morning” lives is the key to mature spirituality that truly practices what it preaches. This could also be called authenticity! I strive to become more authentic in all that I do, especially when with others. I drove to a Turner art exhibit in Mystic, CT. this morning and fought my tendency to judge others when at the wheel; in some cases I did OK but a few times I gave in to anger as if I had been appointed a deputy to local law officers!?
    This remains an issue for me but thanks for your positive thoughts in this post. I will regroup and begin again to be more patient of others’ malfeasance and sharper in condemnation of my own failings, so help me God!

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  4. Erie Chapman Foundation Avatar
    Erie Chapman Foundation

    Love your phrase “mature spirituality” Terry. “Authenticity” in my case too often means defaulting to my FIRST authentic response in situations like you described about driving. Working my way from my reptilian brain up to my prefrontal cortex can often be too long a journey which is why we all need these constant practices & reminders.
    YOU are such a kind fellow it’s hard for me to even imagine you getting impatient. Join the crowd:-)

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  5. ~liz Wessel Avatar
    ~liz Wessel

    This is such a meaningful and beautifully composed reflection, Erie. It is one that I could read again & again and never tire of it…especially your closing line as blessing to us all and may these blessings return to you as well… again & again
    “The connections we make in the course of a life–maybe that’s what heaven is.”
    Fred Rogers

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